A good conversation attracts good relationships. It’s through good conversations that we learn about the interesting and intriguing parts of different people. So if you’re struggling to hold conversations with the people around you, or even just starting one, here are some tips to help you:
1. Be genuinely interested
In conversations, not only should you look interested but also be genuinely interested. You can be interesting by being interested! Don’t be like someone who is not focusing or has no interest in what they have to say when conversing with someone. Show them that you are interested in actively listening, asking questions, and absorbing their answers.
2. Start with a neutral topic
Start the conversation in the lightest way possible. Avoid getting into controversial topics from the get-go, especially when you’re starting to know someone. Start with delicate and exciting topics like Netflix movies, documentaries, sports, hobbies, or favorite foods to eat. If you already establish trust and confidence in conversations, your second meeting or talk about life and work can be easily tackled.
3. Be humorous and playful
When you make someone laugh, you’re instantly building rapport, which puts them at ease. But of course, you need to be careful when cracking appropriate jokes or comments to keep the conversation going and filled with laughter.
4. Don’t dominate the conversation
Good communication is all about give and take, a two-way street. Don’t dominate the conversation, even for small talk. Allow the other person to voice their thoughts and contribute to the discussion without interrupting them. Even in small talk, allow the person to speak. And remember, communication isn’t always verbal. Be aware of non-verbal cues, too.
5. Pay attention to body language
When having a conversation, always make good eye contact. Avoid closed gestures like crossing your arms for prolonged periods and constantly looking away or at your phone. Show interest in the conversation. Adjust your body language accordingly. Don’t overlook the other person’s body language and the messages they may be communicating.
6. Keep things brief
Know when to stop or make the conversation short. Don’t overstay your welcome or bore your conversational partner with dragged-out stories or self-centered monologues. Keep the conversation brief and light, and then, when the time comes, transition to the next topic or person.
7. Seek common ground
To find an instant buddy or rapport builder, find something you and the other person have in common. It could be the same interest in baking, cooking, playing badminton, watching horror movies, etc. Practice finding shared interests or experiences. Finding shared interests or connections will re-energize the conversation, leading to new topics and a closer and more familiar bond.
8. Ask for opinions
By regularly exchanging non-controversial opinions, you’re encouraging a more spirited and energetic dialogue. Remember, it makes us feel good when someone wants to know our views. Why? Because it shows your thoughts and, therefore, you are valued. You want to put your best foot forward when dealing with a new person. So maintain positivity!
9. Be positive
To make a lasting impression, keep the conversation constructive and positive. Keep things amusing, brief, and upbeat to keep things interesting.
10. Practice makes perfect!
Quality results may not happen overnight, but it can occur over time. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you can’t immediately get the hang of things. For the rest of us, being a good conversationalist is a skill that takes effort and repetition. So start simple. To build conversational confidence, you can practice with close friends, family, or colleagues. Don’t forget to take the leap and strike up that conversation!
